WSCJTC's Chief for a Day
Chief for a Day (CFAD) is a statewide celebration that brings together law enforcement agencies, community partners, and families to honor children living with chronic or life-threatening illnesses. Children from across Washington are sworn in as honorary chiefs and sheriffs, complete with custom uniforms, a motorcade escort, and hands-on experiences with first responders.
📢SAVE THE DATE: Join us on July 29, 2027, to celebrate our little chiefs and sheriffs.
About Chief for a Day
Chief for a Day Returns to WSCJTC to Celebrate Courage, Community, and Kids
"'This event reminds us all of the power of connection,' said WSCJTC Executive Director Monica Alexander. 'It’s a chance to lift up these incredible kids and to bring our community together in a meaningful way.'"
Celebrating Courage, Community, and Connection
..."families, officers, and community members gathered for the swearing-in ceremony. Children smiled proudly as real chiefs and sheriffs placed badges on their uniforms. Each child’s story reflected resilience, hope, and a reminder that behind every uniform was a heart touched by community."
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Chief for a Day?
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Chief for a Day is a heartwarming event hosted by the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (WSCJTC) that celebrates children living with chronic or life-threatening illnesses. For one special day, these children are sworn in as honorary Chiefs and Sheriffs by law enforcement agencies from across Washington.
- When and where is the event held?
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The 2027 Chief for a Day event will be held on July 29, 2027, at WSCJTC Headquarters in Burien, WA.
- How long has Chief for a Day been happening?
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WSCJTC has hosted Chief for a Day since 1999, growing it into a statewide support, community, and celebration tradition.
- Who is involved in Chief for a Day?
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In 2025, seventeen law enforcement agencies from across the state sponsored children, provided personalized uniforms, badges, and heartfelt moments of recognition. Families, agency partners, and community supporters gathered to celebrate these incredible kids.
- Can the public attend?
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The event is open to participating families, guests, and agency partners. Because of the children's medical needs, public access is limited. Media are welcome with prior coordination.
- Is there a cost to participate or attend?
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There is no cost for participating families. The sponsoring agencies and event partners cover all expenses.
- How are children selected?
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Law enforcement agencies refer children in partnership with families, hospitals, and care organizations.
- What happens after the event?
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Many agencies stay connected with their honorary Chiefs, inviting them to events and building lasting friendships beyond the day’s celebration.
- Can my agency or organization get involved in future events?
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Yes! Agencies or groups interested in participating or supporting future Chief for a Day events may contact the event coordinator at cjtccfad@cjtc.wa.gov to get involved.
- Are donations accepted to support the event?
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Currently, the event is funded through agency participation and community partnerships; we gladly accept public donations. Donations can be made through the Washington State Combined Fund Drive, linked here.
- Will there be photos or videos available after the event?
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WSCJTC uses photo-release forms to ensure images and videos of participants are approved by subjects before sharing publicly. Approved photos and videos will be shared on our website and social media channels following the event.
- How can the media attend or cover the event?
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Media outlets should contact David Quinlan at david.quinlan@cjtc.wa.gov to coordinate access, request interviews, or obtain event materials.
Buy CFAD Merch
Your purchases go towards funding Chief For A Day!
❗Before You Order
- Limited sizes are available, so please inquire about availability before purchasing.
- All items are available for pick up at WSCJTC headquarters in Burien. Can't pick up in person? No problem! Contact us at cjtccfad@cjtc.wa.gov before placing your order to discuss shipping costs.
💵 How to Pay
Purchases may be made through check, money order, cash, or with card online. View our merch menu PDF for memo details.
Online purchases can be made by making a donation through the Washington State Combined Fund Drive portal.
- Go to the Washington State Combined Fund Drive website
- Donate the total cost of the item(s) you would like to purchase
- Email your receipt and requested item(s) to cjtccfad@cjtc.wa.gov
📫About Pickup and Shipping
All purchases are available for pickup at WSCJTC Headquarters in Burien:
19010 1st Avenue South
Burien, Washington 98148
Monday -Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., closed on Fridays and major holidays.
You also have the option to receive your items the day of the event as well.
Can't pick up in person? No problem! Contact us at cjtccfad@cjtc.wa.gov before placing your order to discuss shipping costs.
For Agencies and Partners
Memos and Downloads
- Become a Sponsoring Agency - PDF
- Letters of interest
- Meetings and deadlines
- Expectations
- Letter of Interest Deadline Extended & Info Meeting - PDF
- The deadline for agencies to submit a letter of interest has been extended to December 1st. Attend our November meeting to learn more.
- Downloadable flyer - PDF
- Share the news with your community by distributing our PDF flyer.
Contact Us
Stay Up to Date
Sign up for occasional email newsletter updates regarding Chief For A Day:
For Media and News Inquiries
For media outlets seeking to coordinate access, request interviews, or obtain event materials, please send our communications team an inquiry using this form:
For more media resources, visit the WSCJTC Newsroom.
For Participating Families & Agencies
- Tisha Tyler, WSCJTC / Event Coordinator. Email: cjtccfad@cjtc.wa.gov